In further continuing growth strategies and expansion, Seald Sweet International in Vero Beach, FL, announced March 7 the launch of its Tropical Commodity division. The division brings new depth and diversity to Seald Sweet's fresh fruit supply base, adding products such as pineapples, plantains, mangos and avocados to its portfolio.

Kelly Ricketts, a sales associate for Sweet Onion Trading in Melbourne, FL, joined the company in May 2009 as an intern soon after graduating from the University of Florida with a degree in food and resource economics.

Jack Cain, vice president of sales and marketing at Westlake Produce Co. in Winter Haven, FL, is optimistic about the upcoming Florida blueberry season, and with ample reason. The company has doubled its volume since last year and continues to make a commitment to supply a premium finished product by investing in the latest packing technology and food safety.

Winter freezes in Florida did not affect the blueberry crop, and in fact February and March brought perfect weather to ensure that this season’s offerings are on time and abundant.

ORLANDO, FL — The Southeast Produce Council drew record attendance to its eighth annual Retail and Foodservice Conference & Expo, with SPC officials, attendees and exhibitors all declaring the event a huge success.

"We hit that 1,400 mark," SPC Executive Director Terry Vorhees proudly told The Produce News March 7.

To better accommodate business needs and growth, PEAKfresh USA has recently purchased and moved into new office space located in Lake Forest, CA. The move, which was official as of March 1, will relocate the sales, shipping and customer service operations of the Modified Atmosphere Packaging film brands company.

STURBRIDGE, MA -- Out with the old ways of thinking and in with the new ways. That is, if you want to survive and thrive in your business.

John Stanley, an internationally known retail consultant, told an audience of New England growers, marketers and service providers that consumers' buying habits have changed dramatically in the past three years. Ignore the changing trends at your own peril, Mr. Stanley warned.